MBALE, November 8, 2023 – The chairperson of Bugisu Cooperative Union [ BCU ], Nathan Nandala Mafabi has made a significant announcement regarding coffee price in Bugisu Sub-region.
On Monday, during his appearance on the popular radio talk show on Elgon FM in Mbale City, Nandala revealed that BCU will be buying a kilogramme of Arabica parchment coffee at Shs 9,000, even though Uganda Coffee Development Authority [UCDA] on its website indicates the price for this particular grade ranges from Shs 9,000-10,000 as of yesterday
In an effort to support local farmers, Nandala emphasised the importance of maintaining high-quality standards in the coffee value chain. “By doing so, farmers can expect to receive better prices on the global market,” he said.
Furthermore, he assured farmers that the previous coffee stored in the union remains intact and that he is actively seeking funds to settle outstanding balances owed to selected farmers.
It is worth noting that other multinational companies are currently purchasing coffee at lower prices, ranging between Shs 6,000 to Shs 7,000.
Nandala who doubles as Budadiri West Member of Parliament highlighted the significance of the BCU price for coffee, saying it protects farmers from being exploited by private companies. Some of the private companies buying coffee in the region are Ugacof, Olam Uganda, Kyagalanyi Coffee and Kawacom among others.
Nandala also encouraged farmers to trust BCU as it offers additional benefits such as second payment, bonuses, and profits that are utilised to support various projects under the union’s umbrella.
BCU mainly buys Arabica coffee which is grown in Bugisu Sub-region covering districts of Bududa, Manafwa, Namisindwa, Bulambuli, Mbale and Sironko.
https://thecooperator.news/we-owe-coffee-farmers-shs-6bln-says-bcu/
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